A Real Pain (2024)

A Real Pain is a surprisingly good, poignant buddy dramedy that elicited strong emotions from me while, at the same time, engaging with my sense of humour. Jesse Eisenberg’s second directing effort follows two mismatched Jewish-American cousins, David and Benji, as they go on a Holocaust tour through Poland to honour their late grandmother. It’s a journey that’s equal parts hilarious and heart-wrenching, with enough emotional depth to leave me thinking about it for a long time after leaving the cinema.

Eisenberg, who wrote, directed, and acted in the movie, proves he’s got the skills to be behind the camera. His script is sharp, witty, and surprisingly nuanced, tackling heavy themes like grief, mental health, and cultural identity with a sophisticated touch. The film’s pacing is spot-on, never dragging or rushing through important moments.

But the real star of A Real Pain is Kieran Culkin. Following his success in the TV series Succession, Culkin excels in his portrayal of the free-spirited, unfiltered Benji. His rapid-fire quips and raw emotional vulnerability steal every scene in which he appears. There’s a scene in a Jewish cemetery where Benji calls out the tour’s lack of emotional authenticity that’s both cringe-worthy and oddly cathartic. It’s impossible not to sympathise with this flawed individual.

Eisenberg effectively portrays the more reserved David, encapsulating the anxiety and frustration of navigating a volatile character such as Benji. The dynamic between the cousins is genuine and infused with years of shared history, permeating every interaction. Jennifer Grey also shines in a small but memorable role as a fellow tour member, bringing warmth and humour to the ensemble.

This film is also a visual feast. The Polish landscapes serve as a beautiful backdrop to the characters’ emotional journeys, with cinematographer Michał Dymek capturing both the sombre weight of historical sites and the vibrant energy of modern cities. The contrast between the cousins’ internal struggles and the external reminders of their heritage’s painful past adds layers of meaning to every frame.

However, the journey of watching A Real Pain is not without challenges. Some of the supporting characters feel a tad underdeveloped, and there are moments where the tonal shifts between comedy and drama can be jarring—although, for me, this added to the complexities of the characters and the themes. The film also occasionally veers into predictable territory, especially in its exploration of family dynamics.

But really these minor quibbles don’t detract from the overall impact this movie had on me. A Real Pain is a genuine, heartfelt exploration of family, identity, and the messy process of healing. It’s the kind of film that’ll make you laugh, cry, and maybe even think about the relationships you have with family.

So, should you see it? Absolutely! Whether you’re a fan of character-driven indies or just in the mood for something that’ll move you emotionally, A Real Pain is worth your time. Just maybe bring some tissues—and be prepared for a few uncomfortable laughs along the way.